In an era of increasing environmental volatility, weather and climate prediction are crucial for national security and global resilience. These capabilities provide the early warning systems required to protect infrastructure and ensure the security of food, water, and energy. This field is being fundamentally re-engineered by Artificial Intelligence; global weather forecasting AI models are now thousands of times faster than traditional numerical prediction and frequently outperform conventional models in both accuracy and efficiency. Developing sovereign AI capabilities in this space is essential to ensure the UK possesses the independent and trusted tools to manage risk and accelerate decision-making.
ROLE PURPOSE
The Environment Forecasting Mission advances AI-enabled forecasting to deliver practical decision intelligence, protecting people and infrastructure from extreme weather, securing the Arctic, and providing operational climate intelligence for global development and adaptation.
- Weather Forecasting for National Security
- Sea-Ice Forecasting for Arctic Resilience
- Climate Prediction for Global Development and Adaptation
As a Theme Lead for our Environment Mission, you will direct a high-priority research portfolio at the cutting edge of AI and weather forecasting. Working alongside key stakeholders like the UK Met Office, you will tackle real-world challenges to shape a national priority at a transformative moment for the field.
We are seeking a leader with an outstanding track record in AI and environmental science and a passion for multidisciplinary, impact-driven collaboration. Reporting to the Mission Director for Environmental Forecasting, you will provide strategic leadership and line management for researchers and engineers. This is a standout opportunity to define the future of national research within a world-leading institute.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT
You will ideally have an international profile as a researcher working in one or several disciplines, with experience of project delivery and leading a research team with a focus on weather forecasting. You will be expected to work closely with mission leadership to:
Lead the development of the research strategy for weather forecasting and ensure strategic links between other research themes and missions.
Lead on the technical oversight of project proposals that are within the area of research, that includes, but is not limited to, proposed activities, resource plan, timeline, deliverable outputs and budget.
Lead grant proposals and bids for funding within the thematic area of AI and weather forecasting.
Represent the Theme in meetings, and external conversations with key stakeholders. Deputise for the Mission Director as needed.
Work with Partnerships team to establish collaborations both nationally and internationally to enable operationalisation of outputs.
Communicate technical topics to colleagues and external partners by preparing presentations, reports, blogs, podcasts.
Inform funders and the Turing Leadership on appropriate use of funds within your team, in line with institute processes.
Work with other Turing support functions (e.g., Programme Management, Research Engineering Group, Finance, Communications, Events and Legal teams) where appropriate.
Line manage staff within the theme, supporting their career development aspirations.
ABOUT YOU
A strong track record and experience in a relevant area, e.g., machine learning, AI, computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, engineering, environmental science
Leadership and strategic vision skills, especially as required in a complex collaboration with external partners
Evidence of leading grant applications and securing external funding
Excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills at all levels
Able to identify and present key information, highlighting any potential issues as required, to influence future plans
If you are interested in this opportunity, please see the full job description. You will need to register on the candidate portal and complete the application form including your CV and cover letter.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This full-time post is offered on a fixed term basis for 3 years. The annual salary is £78,004 – £85,000 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies, Employee-only benefits guide | The Alan Turing Institute
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
The Alan Turing Institute is committed to creating an environment where diversity is valued and everyone is treated fairly. We value diversity of background, experience, and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under-represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, please apply — we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed.
We are committed to making sure our recruitment process is accessible and inclusive. This includes making reasonable adjustments for candidates who have a disability or long-term condition. Please contact us at [email protected] to find out how we can assist you.